Permanent Records

When Permanent Records opened in 2006, it seemed like a risky move—the music industry was in the midst of the digital revolution, and suffering for it. But rather than flailing, Permanent Records expanded. Located in a quiet neighborhood, near Chicago and Wood, it’s a physically small store, but one that’s added its own spice to Chicago’s music scene. Permanent Records cultivates an atmosphere as unique as its music collection. Zaireeka, a friendly “store kitty,” is its mascot. They carry mostly punk and psychedelic music with a sprinkling of old-school hip-hop, free jazz and good soul. “When you make yourself more of a niche market then you get more of a niche customer,” says co-owner Liz Tooley. Just about every Saturday around 5pm, you’ll find the store a lot more crowded and noisier than usual, when local bands play a set. (Tiana Olewnick)